Politics
Seabed mining trials proposed
Wednesday 21 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Deep sea mining trials down to 2000 metres are expected to occur in Cooks’ waters within a few years, marine resources secretary Ben Ponia announced at a regional conference.
Make way for the acting deputy PM
Wednesday 21 November 2012 | Published in Politics
“Seeing the Minister of Health driving himself to work this morning in a Government pick-up truck flanked by two police motorcycle outriders complete with red and blue flashing lights, just brings home again the incredible arrogance of the CIP,” a smoke signaller writes. “Not only does this minister, along with his colleagues, spend ridiculous amounts of money and time travelling overseas, and achieving absolutely nothing of benefit for this country, but whenever they are back here for a short R & R to catch their breath and count up their AirPoints, they resort to this sort of pompous display which is little short of breathtaking. A one-term government? You bet!! And before you mouth off Mr Minister, why don’t you get some decent health care facilities into Pukapuka?”
'When things go wrong, they go very wrong'
Wednesday 21 November 2012 | Published in Politics
A New Zealand parliamentarian used his own “depressing” Rena experience to give a strong warning on dealing with disaster to his fellow Pacific parliamentarians at a regional conference in Rarotonga yesterday.
PM Puna's absence deemed 'appalling'
Tuesday 20 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen believes Cabinet’s lack of presence during the biggest annual gathering of Commonwealth parliamentary members could affect the Cooks’ international relations.
Opposition: Power discounts 'deceptive'
Tuesday 20 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen has hit back at the prime minister’s Friday public statement that power company Te Aponga Uira (TAU) has cut power charges by five percent, saying these claims are just a public relations spin that misleads the public.
Proper animal care urged
Tuesday 20 November 2012 | Published in Politics
The temperature is rising in the Cook Islands and the Esther Honey Foundation wants to remind everyone of the minimum requirements to keep animals healthy and comfortable.
Opposition suspicious of 'treating'
Monday 19 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen warns the government must be careful they are not seen to be illegally “treating” when offering to put Mangaia’s water needs before other outer islands.
New diploma in human rights
Monday 19 November 2012 | Published in Politics
A new course at the University of the South Pacific will provide training and a recognised qualification in leadership, governance and human rights for people throughout the Pacific region.
5% power discount announced
Saturday 17 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Following heated debate in parliament last week on the high cost of power, the government yesterday announced a 5 percent discount for promptly paid power bills.
Puna to PNG
Saturday 17 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Prime Minister Henry Puna is taking a government delegation to Port Moresby next week to strengthen bilateral ties with the Papua New Guinea Government.
Meeting house vandalised
Saturday 17 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Unchecked vandalism and lack of community care have caused the Turangi meeting house to fall into disrepair.
Mama Tuki pushes rights for disabled
Saturday 17 November 2012 | Published in Politics
The Cook Islands is far more advanced in implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability compared to neighbours in the Asia-Pacific region.
Govt seeks public input on Budget
Friday 16 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Members of the public can have a say in the 2013-14 national budget, according to finance minister Mark Brown.
PNG seabed mining on hold
Friday 16 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Shares in the Canadian company that is preparing to mine Papua New Guinea’s seabed for rich mineral resources have taken a drastic fall after halting equipment construction to avoid running out of cash.
Wilkie: Parliament 'almost uneventful'
Thursday 15 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Matariki FM co-host Wilkie Rasmussen has labelled last week’s parliament sitting as “almost uneventful”.
SPC's 'complex challenge'
Thursday 15 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) director-general Dr Jimmie Rodgers says making the most of ocean resources is a “complex challenge”.
Atiu mayor responds to allegations
Wednesday 14 November 2012 | Published in Politics
The only “dirt” on Taoro Brown these days is from having to clean up the lingering mess left behind by Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George, says the Atiu mayor.
Sharing not in the pipeline
Wednesday 14 November 2012 | Published in Politics
The two rival fuel companies on Rarotonga are both working on their respective pipelines – but suggestions they might share to reduce environmental impact does not go down well.
Well-travelled lot
Tuesday 13 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Finance Minister Mark Brown wants to clarify the departure figures discussed in parliament on Thursday.
Shipping minister questioned on Uma choice
Monday 12 November 2012 | Published in Politics
Opposition Leader Wilkie Rasmussen is concerned that the new shipping licence granted to Uma Shipping will halt proposed plans for another ship to service the northern group.